Following the confirmation, Alex settled into the cab.
The Mana-driven cab is a remarkable innovation born out of the transformative era after the awakening of mana and the subsequent contact with the distant planet 'Dravus.'
This type of cab is not your typical taxi; it represents a significant advancement in transportation technology.
At first glance, the Mana-driven cab looks much like any other taxi on the road. It boasts a conventional design, with the familiar yellow color or any other color that taxis are commonly associated with.
The exterior doesn't give away the advanced technology hidden within. Interior Elegance: What truly distinguishes the Mana-driven cab is its interior.
As you step inside, you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication.
As Alex found himself with approximately 45 minutes remaining before the hunter test, he decided to utilize this brief window for a quick nap.
During this short respite, he reflected on the events of the past few hours and contemplated the significant changes that had unfolded in his life, granting him a second chance at pursuing his dreams.
The Mana-driven cab, renowned for its remarkable speed, whisked Alex toward his destination with unparalleled swiftness.
In a mere 15 minutes, the cab had covered a considerable distance and arrived at the inner city gate.
Sensing this, the vigilant cab driver roused Alex from his slumber, understanding the importance of adhering to their prior agreement to avoid any toll fees associated with the entrance to the inner city.
This prompt action demonstrated the driver's commitment to ensuring a smooth and cost-effective journey for his passenger.
From a distance of about 1 kilometer, the colossal circular walls, each towering over 50 feet in height, come into view.
Following the apocalyptic events that reshaped the world, the government of New York took a momentous initiative by constructing these massive circular barriers.
They serve distinct purposes: one encircles the inner city, another surrounds the outer city, and the last one envelops the area beyond the outer city limits.
These imposing walls signify a radical transformation in the urban landscape, marking a significant shift in the post-catastrophe era, where security and delineation between different zones have become paramount.
There are a total of 6 entry gates and 6 exit gates in this system, and the circular walls are fortified with a sophisticated magical defense system.
Despite the presence of around 30 to 40 vehicles queuing up, it may give the impression of a lengthy waiting time to an uninformed observer.
However, the reality is quite the opposite due to the government's widespread integration of mana in various aspects of daily life, including transportation.
Each vehicle is equipped with a mana scanner for toll collection, and drivers need to recharge their vehicle's scanner.
In practice, this process is remarkably efficient, taking as little as 2 to 5 seconds to complete, ensuring a swift flow of traffic through the gates.
It took approximately 5 minutes for the cab that Alex was in to approach the tollgate.
Anticipating the next step, Alex proactively addressed the cab driver, assuring him, "You can include the toll fees in the total bill."
The toll payment process was swift, lasting no more than 5 seconds, allowing the vehicle to smoothly pass through the main gate.
As they entered, Alex experienced a peculiar sensation, akin to moving through a gentle pulling force.
This sensation was due to a mana barrier, erected by the local government for purification purposes, and it served as a protective measure to prevent any potential disturbances.
With the taxes surging, particularly for residents of the inner city, the government's primary emphasis had shifted toward enhancing the quality of life for those dwelling in this privileged area.
Alex couldn't help but release a profound sigh as he contemplated the situation. "I must prioritize relocating my parents to the inner city within the next three months," he resolved with unwavering determination, recognizing the necessity of ensuring their improved living conditions.
The cab driver couldn't hide his surprise as he glanced at the long queue forming at the tollgate previously when they were in line.
He leaned towards Alex and voiced his astonishment, "Sir, it's quite unusual. I was in the inner city just yesterday, and there was hardly a line at the tollgate. Today, however, there was a long line but it seems we got lucky to pass through so quickly."
Taking a moment to address the cab driver's curiosity, Alex decided to provide some context, knowing that the driver might not be aware of the significance of the date.
"You see," he began, "today is the 19th of the month, and that holds a special meaning. It's the official Hunter test day.
People from nearby cities and even those living in the outer regions come here to New York City for this crucial examination.
After all, New York is the capital of America, and it's widely known as the preferred location for the Hunter Association's official exams."
While it was true that there existed more than 30 branches of the Hunter Association scattered across America, Alex felt it necessary to explain why New York was the preferred choice for so many candidates.
"You see," he continued, "one of the reasons people flock to New York is because of its reputation for having remarkably low corruption rates within the Hunter Association.
In some of the lower-tier branches, corruption has been a persistent issue, which can jeopardize the fairness and integrity of the tests.
So, many aspiring hunters prefer to take their chances here in New York, where they believe the examination process is transparent and trustworthy."
The cab driver nodded thoughtfully, taking in this newfound knowledge.
"That's good to know, sir," he acknowledged. "By the way, where should I drop you off?"
Without hesitation, Alex replied with unwavering confidence, "Right in front of the Hunter Association."
The driver nodded in understanding, and the cab continued its journey through the bustling city streets.
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[Author here: Guys, I hope you are enjoying my novel, I hope you all can support me through Powerstones and Golden Ticket. ]